Volunteer groups in full swing during turtle nesting season

May 13, 2010|SEAN DÃÂÃÂ¿OLIVEIRA Forum Publishing Group

While recently hatched sea turtles have countless obstacles to overcome in order to survive, artificial lighting from nearby coastal development is their first enemy. That's why local volunteers are working to direct the turtles safely into the ocean.

Sea Turtle Oversight Protection consists of volunteers who monitor turtle nests throughout Broward County to ensure the hatchlings safely navigate toward the ocean instead of roadways and other development.

"We have a very large responsibility to ensure we protect these turtles for everyone," said Richard Whitecloud, founder and director of STOP. "It's not just a beach; it's a nesting habitat."

To help the turtles reach the ocean, Whitecloud and other members are permitted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to aid disoriented hatchlings. To participate, volunteers don't need to have a permit, but can observe and learn how the group coordinates the hatchlings.

In addition to monitoring recent hatchlings, the group works to educate residents on the importance of turning off outside lights and closing blinds. It also works with local condo associations, hotels, homeowners and restaurants to help curb the artificial lighting that leads turtles away from the ocean.

"A lot of them want to help, but they don't know how," said Donna Harland, a volunteer with STOP.

To inform the public about the importance of low lighting during turtle season, which runs from March to November, the club hosts awareness and lighting workshops and offers free consultations to help find methods to lower the lighting emissions.

"It can be tough to convey to the general public," Whitecloud said. "Most residents are trying to comply, but some people are hesitant."

Last season, STOP saved 5,513 hatchlings from death and transported 500 injured turtles. In addition, about 500 volunteers were able to observe and learn the importance protecting the turtles and their habitat, Whitecloud said.

This season has been relatively slow so far, which Whitecloud attributes to the extended cold weather, as well as the turtles' declining habitat. And the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico will certainly not help the turtle population.

A hatchling has only a one-in-10,000 chance of reaching adulthood, Whitecloud said, so it is critical that STOP continues to expand its membership, particularly in Hallandale Beach, Hollywood and Dania Beach.